Our story
A story shaped by the land, its people, and the pursuit of extraordinary experiences.
Kia ora,
I’m Matt, the founder and director of Bespoke Kiwi. I started Bespoke Kiwi in 2018 through a stroke of serendipity and a deep desire to rethink the typical luxury tourism experience.
As a keen young university graduate, I returned home from my studies in 2018. On my journey from Dunedin, a quaint coastal city in the south of New Zealand, to Kerikeri, my hometown in the far north, I did my usual perusing out of the plane window over the awe-inspiring natural landscapes. As I pondered where my life’s journey would take me next, my mind wandered to how I could better show the world our beautiful backyard.
Having worked as a tour guide in New Zealand since 2014, I’ve gained invaluable first-hand experience in how clients respond to various facets of a private tour. In finishing my studies, it was at this stage that my interest in environmentally-orientated practice and sustainability grew. Although I prefer to run Bespoke Kiwi based on its own merits and performance, sustainable practice is a central, motivating tenet of our services. I believe there is a misconception within the industry that sustainability and luxury are mutually exclusive. A key goal for myself and Bespoke Kiwi alike is to debunk this myth and act as a market leader in this respect. These observations, when coupled together, have allowed me to refine what I consider to be the best formula for constructing the perfect custom New Zealand holiday.
As a young company, we all share a progressive mindset and, most importantly, a hunger to constantly improve our service. I have overwhelming confidence in our staff, our product and our vision. Above all, I want to ensure that anyone visiting New Zealand leaves no stone unturned and is able to revel in its spectacular natural beauty.
Thanks for stopping by, and I hope to hear from you soon.
Ngā mihi nui (Kindest regards),
Matt Hill
What makes us different?
More Than a Guide
Our guides are your connection to this land. They’re not just drivers. They’re storytellers, and passionate Kiwis who know the backroads, the best-kept secrets, and how to read the rhythm of the day. When you travel with one of ours, you travel deeper.
We are Detail Obsessed
We’re seasoned travellers ourselves and we know how the little things can make or break a trip. That’s why we plan meticulously, communicate clearly, and go the extra mile to make sure everything just works.
Sustainable travel
At Bespoke Kiwi, we believe travel should enrich both the traveller and the land. Our journeys are designed to protect New Zealand’s natural beauty while creating meaningful connections with the people and culture that make it unique.
Bespoke Kiwi has been awarded a Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Award. This recognition places us among the best tourism operators in New Zealand, highlighting our commitment to exceptional service, safety, and environmental resposibility.
The Tiaki Promise
Our environment is special to us. At Bespoke Kiwi, we follow the Tiaki Promise, a nationwide commitment to care for our environment, for now and for future generations.
New Zealand is precious, and everyone who lives and travels here has a responsibility to look after it.
Nau mai, haere mai ki a Aotearoa.
Watch the video below to learn more about the Tiaki Promise.
Your Journey Starts Here
